Last Updated on January 29, 2026 by Vannessa Rhoades, Three Bears Home Staging
Red brick homes are timeless, but choosing exterior paint colors that truly complement them can be surprisingly tricky. Brick has strong, warm undertones, and it never changes, which means even popular exterior paint colors can clash once everything is viewed together.
A successful red brick exterior makeover depends less on trends and more on understanding how paint colors interact with brick, lighting, and surrounding materials. When those factors are considered together, it becomes much easier to create a modern, cohesive look that still respects the home’s character.
In this article…
- Why Red Brick Is a Popular Choice for Homes
- How to Find Paint Colors That Go With Red Brick: The Challenge
- How to Make a Red Brick House Look Modern: Tips to Find Red Brick Exterior Color Schemes That Work
- What Exterior Color Goes Well with Red Brick?
- Compare Exterior Paint Colors for Red Brick with Confidence
Why Red Brick Is a Popular Choice for Homes
Red brick remains a popular exterior choice thanks to its durability, low maintenance, and classic appeal. It doesn’t fade or rot like some materials, and its longevity can sometimes add to a home’s perceived value, according to Trulia.
That same permanence, however, is what makes paint selection challenging. Because brick brings its own color and undertones into the mix, exterior paint choices need to work with it, not compete against it.
How to Find Paint Colors That Go With Red Brick: The Challenge
Red brick has strong, warm undertones that can clash with certain colors. Common mistakes include:
- Choosing colors that compete with the brick’s natural hue.
- Ignoring the importance of undertones in paint colors.
- Not testing colors in different lighting conditions.
Because brick is a fixed exterior material, paint colors need to be chosen with more intention than they might be indoors. Understanding how to coordinate paint colors so they actually work together makes it much easier to narrow down options that won’t fight with permanent exterior finishes.
How to Make a Red Brick House Look Modern: Tips to Find Red Brick Exterior Color Schemes That Work
1. Neutral Tones for a Timeless Look
Neutral paint colors allow red brick to remain the focal point while creating a cleaner, more updated exterior. Soft grays, warm taupes, and balanced off-whites tend to work best, especially for trim and secondary elements.
2. Bold Accents for a Pop of Personality
If you want to add some drama, consider a bold front door color, like black or navy blue. Deep, rich hues create a striking contrast against red brick and instantly modernize your home’s exterior.
3. Monochromatic Schemes for a Cohesive Feel
For a sleek, modern look, try a monochromatic color scheme. Earthy colors like terracotta, beige, and muted reds are increasingly popular with homeowners.
4. Complementary Colors for an Eye-Catching Combination
Blues and greens are on the opposite side of the color wheel from the red-orange hue of brick. Pair your red brick with shades that create a high-contrast effect, giving your home a sophisticated and polished appearance.
What Exterior Color Goes Well with Red Brick?
The answer depends on your home’s style and your personal taste. Here are a few tips:
- For a traditional look: Stick with classic neutrals that complement the brick’s warmth.
- For a modern look: Experiment with bold accents and monochromatic schemes.
- For a cozy feel: Choose warm, earthy tones that harmonize with the brick’s natural undertones.
Compare Exterior Paint Colors for Red Brick with Confidence
Choosing paint for a red brick exterior often comes down to subtle differences that are hard to spot on small samples. Undertones, depth, and contrast become much clearer when colors are compared side by side in real lighting.
Our Ultimate Guide to Paint Colors for Red Brick Exteriors is designed to make that comparison easier. Instead of guessing, you can evaluate how individual paint colors interact with red brick before committing.
What’s included:
- Seven carefully selected exterior paint color options suited for red brick homes
- Large 8″ × 10″ real-life swatches for accurate side-by-side comparison
- Guidance for spotting undertone conflicts and avoiding common exterior mistakes
This approach helps homeowners narrow options confidently and choose colors that feel intentional, cohesive, and appropriate for their brick.
If you’re planning a red brick exterior update and want more clarity before committing to a color, this guide makes it easier to compare options and avoid costly missteps.
Explore the Ultimate Guide to Paint Colors for Red Brick Exteriors and start planning your exterior with confidence.
Vannessa Rhoades
Vannessa Rhoades is the author of Just Right! Easy DIY Home Staging and the founder of the award-winning firm, Three Bears Home Staging®. She specializes in providing positive, empowering virtual consultations that help homeowners and real estate agents all across the country sell more quickly and for more money.
